Museums, Zoos, After-School Programs Boost Science Learning

January 14, 2009 -- Each year, tens of millions of Americans, young and old, learn about science in informal ways -- by visiting museums and watching TV documentaries, for example. There is abundant evidence that these experiences contribute to people's knowledge and interest in science, says a new report from the National Research Council. Such settings and programs may also support academic gains for young people from groups historically underrepresented in science.